Target a mash pH of 5.35, pre-boil pH of 5.2 (acid likely needed), and post-whirlpool pH of 4.9 (acid likely needed).
Mash at 148°F (64°C) for 50 min. and 168°F (76°C) for 10 min.
Boil and add hops and other ingredients as indicated. Turn off the heat before adding dextrose.
Whirlpool, covered, for 30 min.
Chill to 65°F (18°C) and transfer to the fermenter, aiming for 5.5–6 gal. (20.8–22.7 L) into fermenter. Add 1 mL ALDC while pitching the yeast to prevent hop creep.
After fermentation is complete, seal fermenter or add positive pressure to avoid oxygen intake, and cool to 45°F (7°C). After 1 day, dump yeast and trub, if possible. Add all of the dry hops and another 1 mL of ALDC, seal fermenter, and let temperature rise to 65°F (18°C).
After 6 days, drop temperature to 38°F (3°C). Dump hops after 24 hours and again after 48 hours. Add 20 mL Biofine Clear, agitating the beer with CO2 to mix.
After another 48 hours, transfer beer to a CO2-purged keg, taking care to avoid introducing oxygen.
NHC Gold Medal IPA 2023
Award Winning Recipe